How to Perform the Barbeau Test with Marcelo Guimaraes, MD | Terumo Interventional Systems

The Barbeau test is used to determine the radial artery's fitness for the transradial approach by evaluating the collateral circulation of the hand. In this video, Dr. Marcelo Guimaraes performs a live demonstration of the Barbeau Test and explains how it is used to evaluate a potential radial candidate.  The Barbeau test involves placing a pulse oximeter on the ipsilateral thumb or pointer finger, and recording the plethysmography tracing.  The radial artery is compressed and blocked while the tracing is observed for changes.  If the tracing remains, it would indicate that there is adequate collateral blood flow through the ulnar artery.  If the tracing goes flat, it would indicate that there is not adequate collateral blood flow through the ulnar artery.